Constructing an outdoor smoking shelter has been top of the list of questions businesses have been asking Great Yarmouth’s smoke-free guru Ivan Clark as they seek to meet the July 1 smoking ban.

Ivan, who was appointed by Great Yarmouth Borough Council to help businesses comply with the legislation, has been visiting businesses to offer advice on how to accommodate customers once it becomes illegal to smoke in enclosed public places.

“Many businesses are looking at constructing outdoor shelters for their customers,” said Ivan. “But there are strict guidelines on what is and what isn’t acceptable as the new legislation covers partially enclosed public places as well.

A suggestion of the type of shelter that businesses might build for customers who smoke.

“We have put together some guidelines which are in a free newsletter to be mailed to all businesses in the Borough at the beginning of March.

“We are also holding a free event at the Town Hall on March 15 to help business owners and managers plan in advance and deal with the requirements of customers and staff that smoke - and most importantly help them to maintain their profits”

There are three sessions on March 15 each aimed at a different sector:

• 10 to 11am - pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes

• 12 to 1pm - hotels, guesthouses, care homes and hostels, and

• 2 to 3pm - all other businesses and users of company vehicles.

Ivan will also visit business premises to advise on changes they will need to make.

For futher information please contact Ivan Clark: Call 01493 846478 or 07795 428180 or email ilc@great-yarmouth.gov.uk.